Chapter 992 PreparationsOne Wild Night

992 Preparations

The afternoon sun bathed Tom's mansion in golden light, its rays gleaming off the icicle lights draped across the roof and the garlands woven around the door.

The house was alive with activity, filled with the hum of voices, the sound of distant laughter, and the occasional clatter of decorations being adjusted.

Lucy stood in the middle of the spacious living room, her clipboard in hand, as the event planner walked beside her. Amy hovered just behind, ready to assist.

The Christmas tree in the corner sparkled with hundreds of twinkling lights, and beneath it, a mountain of beautifully wrapped gifts added to the festive cheer.

"Okay," Lucy said, scanning the clipboard. Her voice held a touch of anxiety as her eyes flitted over the details. "The caterers are setting up in the banquet stand, right? And the bartenders? They know the setup for both the indoor and outdoor bar?"

The event planner, a poised woman named Grace, gave her a patient smile. "Yes, Lucy. Everything is under control. The caterers are already here, and the bar team arrived half an hour ago. The ice sculptures were delivered this morning, and I personally checked the arrangements in the ballroom."

Lucy exhaled, but the tension didn't leave her shoulders. "And the music? Are the violinists present? And is the sound system tested? I don't want—"

"Jewel." Tom's voice interrupted her, smooth and warm. He approached with a plate of canapés in hand, a concerned smile tugging at his lips. "Breathe. Relax. You're going to work yourself into a frenzy."

"I'm not worked up," Lucy protested, her tone defensive as she turned to him.

"Yes, you are. You hired the best Event planner there is for the job and you should trust her and relax," Tom said, and Grace flashed him a smile of gratitude at the vote of confidence.

"It's not like I don't trust her. I just want everything to be perfect for tonight," Lucy explained.

Tom stepped closer, his eyes soft with affection as he kissed her forehead. "Trust me when I say everything will be perfect because you're perfect. And everything you touch turns out perfect," He winked, his words earning a soft aww from both Grace and Amy.

Lucy rolled her eyes, though a faint blush crept into her cheeks. "You always say flattering stuff," she muttered.

"I'm not flattering you right now. I'm honest, I promise. Now you should eat. You haven't had anything to eat all morning and we both know that's not good for you," he said, and she sighed.

"I can't eat. My stomach is in knots. How did you know I haven't eaten, anyway?" She asked, narrowing her eyes.

Tom chuckled, his voice low and teasing. "Because I've been keeping my eyes on you all morning. My eyes are always on you, you know that," he said, giving her a small kiss. "And I asked around too when I noticed that you haven't eaten all day, so I brought you this," He held up the plate, offering it to her.

"I can't..."

"Yes, you can, and you will. Keep this up and you might faint before the guests even arrive. The last thing we want is your stomach growling in the middle of the toast," he said, making the ladies laugh.

Lucy sighed, surrendering as she reached for a canapé. "Fine, but just one. I don't want to waste everyone's time."

"You're not wasting anyone's time," Amy chimed in.

"We're perfectly fine, Lucy. Take a moment," Grace assured her.

Tom held up a canapé. "Open up," he said, his tone playful but firm.

Sonia rolled her eyes, "It's just a Christmas Eve party, not even your wedding. Stop being such a fussy perfectionist," Sonia said as she wrapped an arm around Lucy. "They've got this. You go freshen up, and I'll come with you to keep you company. The hairstylist and make up artist will be here soon. You have to be ready in time to welcome your first guests."

22:10

Lucy nodded, her heart swelling with gratitude. "You're right. You all are lifesavers," she said, her voice soft with emotion. She gave them each a quick hug before heading toward the staircase with Sonia by her side.

As they walked upstairs, Sonia glanced at her. "You've done such an amazing job, Lu. Tonight is going to be unforgettable."

Lucy smiled, her anxiety slowly giving way to excitement. "I hope so. I really want this to be perfect for everyone. Especially for Tom."

"It already is," Sonia assured her. "Now, let's get you ready to propose to your man," Sonia whispered and Lucy giggled.

"I can't wait to see how he reacts," she said with a soft smile.

"Me too. I can't wait," Sonia said, eager to see the excitement on both their faces when they realize they had been planning to surprise each other for months.

Once they walked into the bedroom, Lucy gasped softly when she saw a dress spread out on the bed which Tom had gotten her for the Christmas Eve party.

The dress spread out on the bed took Lucy's breath away. It was an exquisite floor-length gown, the deep emerald green fabric shimmering with a subtle sheen that caught the late afternoon sunlight streaming through the window.

The bodice was designed with delicate lace that traced elegant floral patterns across the neckline and shoulders, giving it a timelessly romantic feel. A soft train pooled at the hem, and the dress seemed to glow with understated sophistication.

A thin, jeweled belt cinched at the waist added a touch of sparkle, perfectly complementing the crystals scattered sparingly across the skirt. It was a gown fit for royalty, yet it retained a warmth that made it uniquely hers.

Lucy stepped closer, her heart swelling with love for Tom as she reached out to touch the fabric. It was soft and luxurious, the kind of material that whispered of love and care.

Beside it lay a handwritten note from Tom, his bold yet tender handwriting unmistakable.

Jewel,

I didn't forget to get the dress as I know you thought I did. I wanted it to be a last minute surprise. I hope this would bring out the light in your eyes tonight. You should feel and look as beautiful as you make my world every day.

Love always,

Ace.

Lucy's eyes stung with unshed tears as she read the note, while Sonia who stood behind her, grinned knowingly.

"Wow." Sonia said, gently squeezing Lucy's shoulder. "That man is head over heels for you."

Lucy held the note to her chest. "He really is, isn't he?" she whispered, her voice thick with love.

"And tonight, when you propose, he'll know just how much you love him too," Sonia said, nudging her toward the vanity. "Now, let's get you ready. You have a busy night ahead."

Lucy nodded, a radiant smile breaking through her earlier anxiety. "Let's do this."